Sustainability of Renewable Sources of Energy for Rural Communities in Anambra State

Abstract

This study assessed the sustainability of different alternative renewable sources of energy for rural communities in Anambra State. Through literature review a number of sustainability criteria were established and used in assessing the identified alternative sources of renewable energy in the state. A systematic SWOT analysis was further performed to synthesise the characteristics of individual renewable energy resource. 42 experts were engaged and given a structured questionnaire where they were expected to score each of the renewable energy sources on a 5-point scale based on the selected sustainability criteria. A scale of 1-5 was used to examine and rate the sustainability of each of the identified renewable energy options based on environmental social and economic criteria. Based on their individual scores, the total average score for each of the energy sources was computed and used in rating their level sustainability. The study found that among the six alternative renewable energy options considered, biomass was ranked the most sustainable renewable energy source for electricity provision in rural communities in the state with a sustainability score of 35.0. Solar and hydro energy resources were ranked 2nd and 3rd with scores of 31.2 and 31.0 respectively, while geothermal (24.5) energy was ranked the least. This implies that harnessing and investing in biomass, solar and hydro energy technologies in Anambra State could lead to sustainable energy provision in the rural Communities in Anambra State. The study further avers that genuine commitment through government investments in biomass, solar and hydro energy technologies with strong policy framework could minimise the electricity challenges of the rural communities in the state, and at the same time reduce pressure on urban infrastructure due to rural-urban migration.